Welcome to the new home for past news. As we post new events the older postings will be added here.
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Don’t miss a rare and special double bill with and The Bruce Marshall Group and the Peacheaters at Great Brook Farm in Bolton, MA on Sunday, June 27th. Both groups have a Southern Rock pedigree that will be heaven to fans of this genre. The Peacheaters offer the ultimate Allman Brothers Experience, with their own stamp on the legendary group, pushing their jams to the limit. Expect songs spanning the entire ABB catalog. Bruce was a member of Toy Caldwell’s Band and has toured with Lynyrd Skynyrd, Charlie Daniels and the Outlaws with the former Marshall Tucker guitarist. Along with songs from their 6 cd’s you can expect a healthy dose of Marshall Tucker in the Bruce Marshall Group set list. This will be one of metrowest’s top bills of the summer.
The Bruce Marshall Group plays from 4-7, with the Peacheaters on from 7:30-10, on the deck. Dave C is a part time Peacheater and we’ll be expecting some serious jams between the 2 bands as the evening progresses. The famous Great Brook Farm barbecue will be in full swing, cover charge is $15. 356 Main St., Bolton, MA. 01740 978-779-6680
Rain or shine, indoors or out. To reserve your tickets and to prepay for your barbecue dinner go to: Great Brook Farm
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Metronome Magazine, 5-24-10
Bruce Marshall Group
MISSPENT YOUTH 12 song CD
The Bruce Marshall Group exhibits a contagious, feel-good swagger on their
new album “Misspent Youth”. Fronted by singer-songwriter Bruce Marshall, the
album includes band mates Dave Cournoyer on guitars, bass and vocals, Ed
Grenga on Keyboards, Pete Premo and Steve Wolpe on drums, Jeff Majeau and
Neil Taylor on bass guitar. Guests include Sally Marshall and Brit Sawdon on
vocals, John Donahoe on sax and fiddle and James Montgomery on harmonica.
With “Misspent Youth”, Marshall revisits his earlier days and some of the
critical moments in his life that made him gravitate towards a music career
and lifestyle. Recollecting times with teenage friends (“Slave To My
Senses”, “Misspent Youth”), being struck by a message from the great Hank
Williams (“3 Chords and The Truth”), lessons from a street-wise biker chick
(“Dirty Side Down”), understanding the consequences of greed (“Gold”), and
awakening to the reality of our own mortality (“There Go I”), Marshall pens
his observations with a keen eye and exacting musical sensibility. This
allows listeners access to his world while being able to relate to his tales
on a personal level. Although the years have passed, Bruce Marshall and
company prove they’re still in tall form with a collection of songs that
resonate with musical conviction.
Douglas Sloan
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Bruce Marshall Group
"Misspent Youth"
ATM Records
12 Song CD
Everything a listener would expect to hear from veteran performer Bruce Marshall's sixth and latest CD, "Misspent Youth", is prominent and evidently clear from beginning to end in this very professional and very listenable release. With many apparent blues influences and a sensible and well thought-out sequence of songs, each Marshall composition on the CD typically has a great melody, intelligent lyrics and a first-rate delivery: Bruce's superb finger-picking guitar playing catches your ear on every melody and whether he's playing the acoustic folk blues of "Slave To My Senses" and "There Go I", the first and last songs on this project, or the varied and more electric performances on the middle ten tunes, all recordings sound crisp and memorable, and each arrangement has the aural consistency, in the bigger picture, of being recognizable as coming only from this incredibly talented individual. Even the songs like "Blues In The House" and "Conscience As My Witness", two straight B.B. King inspired performances, still bear the Marshall imprint as do every other offering on this well-balanced mix of different blues sounds. The rocking blues of "3 Chords And The Truth", the college-radio friendly r&b of "Dirty Side Down", "Restless Soul" and "Gold", the Southern/Country feel of "Misspent Youth", "My Own Bed" and "Procrastination" (all with a stripped-down Marshall Tucker groove); and whether he's using an electric or acoustic guitar, Marshall has an instinctive pop feel to his musical persona and sometimes the strength of the song isn't in what notes he plays but in what tones he doesn't play and in the music's uniquely Bruce Marshall sound. And this sound is all his own and that's a very good thing; this is a strong CD from this consummate local professional.Last year, Bruce was selected and sent by the BBS to represent Boston at The International Blues Challenge, and "Misspent Youth" illustrates why his creativity is a good example of many of the best aspects of what our current local blues scene is all about.
AJ Wachtel
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WZLX, 100.7, has chosen the Bruce Marshall Group to perform at Marathon Mania on April 19, their annual party at the finish line for the Boston Marathon at the Prudential center. The group will play from noon to 1:10 and then the classic rock act Revolver will play 2 shows until 4:00. This will be an excellent opportunity to enjoy the group in a great setting with state of the art production combined with the excitement of the legendary Boston Marathon. Thanks to our friends Cha-chi, Carter Alan and the rest of the gang at 'ZLX. Send Carter an e-mail and request "3 Chords & the Truth" and "Blues in the House". wzlx.radio
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The Bruce Marshall Group will be headlining a Dance on March 20, 2010, at Exchange Hall, 2 School St. in Acton, MA. 01720. Equinox at Exchange Hall will be a fabulous evening of fine entertainment and is presented by Iron Work Farm in Acton, the non-profit corporation dedicated to preserving historically significant buildings and landmarks in the town. Exchange Hall is an example of such a landmark and one of the older buildings in Acton has recently undergone a stunning restoration.
The festivities will occur on the 3rd floor from 7-11 and include The Jolly Rogues, an 18th century jigs and reels act and singer-songwriter Larry Lee Oppel will perform and MC the event. The Bruce Marshall Group will close the evening, performing original Blues, Rock and R & B from their 6 cd’s. Tickets are $50 per adult and include finger foods from Whole Foods Market, complimentary beverage and a free membership to Iron Work Farm. There will also be a silent auction, a cash bar and plenty of room for dancing. Don’t miss this exciting event, for tickets and more info log on to: www.ironworkfarm.org A limited number of Tickets can also be bought at the door the night of the show. We’re sorry but Exchange Hall is not handicap accessable. For more information, call: 978-697-4891.
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Hi Folks,
Thank you so much for all the good luck wishes and support, we got home from the 26th International Blues Challenge in Memphis around 9:30 tonight (Sunday) and after chillin' a bit I decided to jot down some of my experiences while they’re still fresh. Because of the overwhelming generosity of our incredible friends, family and fans I had an unforgettable time! I didn’t make the finals but gave it my best shot…as luck would have it, the winner of the solo/duo category performed in my venue so the competition couldn’t have been stiffer…I’ll always wonder how close I might have come if he was in another club but I’m not making any excuses, everyone had their shot and they send the score sheets later so I’ll have an idea how I fared…here’s how it went down…
I was lucky to have Michelle, my friends and members of the Boston Blues Society to cheer me on. My sincere thanks to Michelle “Cupcake” Ezzy, Ramona “Romo” Margolis, Bob “Steady Rollin” Margolis, Maureen “Mo” Booth, Dan “Dan'a'mo” Meenan, Marty “M Dawg” Beecy, Denise “D Pup” Pageot-Beecy, Linda “LLCool Cat” Beneke, Dan “Danamatic” Beneke, Bob “2 Belt” Elsasser and John “multi ax” Donahoe for their undying support and friendship.
There were 10 of us that left from Concord (1-21) at 3:30 AM for a 6 AM flight, which got us to Memphis by 8:00 AM (Central). We hoped we could get an early check- in but the Spring Hill was jammed the previous night and we couldn’t get in till 3 so we waited for about 7 hours to get our rooms…I tried to crash in a chair in the lobby without much luck and had to be at orientation from 3:00-4:00 and Club 152 on Beale St. by 4:30, half an hour before the first act, to check in.
This year there were 150 bands and 80 solo/duo acts compared to 100 bands and 60 solo/duo acts when BMG competed in ’07 so the odds were tougher this year. We had 10 bands at our club, with 3 judges and then 3 new judges the following evening. Each act plays the same venue Friday and Sat. Sets were 25 minutes, which is barely 6 tunes.
I went on third the first night, after Alain Apaloo, who played a resonator guitar with huge low end (C tuning), had great finger style chops and compelling songs that were bluesy but strayed from traditional blues like some of my stuff. Also of note was a Italian finger style guitarist , Francesco Piu, (Hot Motzarella), Doug Beckman, who played a steel Paul Beard resonater with a quieter, old school approach and was accompanied by a very soulful singer, and traditionalist Austin “Walkin’ Cane” who charmed the crowd with his personality and delta style on a tri cone resonator and a wooden model. He even told a joke about removing his artificial leg and filling it with beer on a bet one night! The quality of musicianship was very high, especially instrumentally and I noticed most everyone did all originals. The idea that my dobro might have stood out went away after realizing 4 of the ten acts used them and there was one lap steel as well.
It’s hard for me to critique my own set though I got some feedback from the gang and it was similar to how I felt...
I did 6 songs and started on Dobro, doing all my stuff except “Bring It On Home” which I ended with and had the crowd singing with me. I was a little out of sorts for the first 2 dobro tunes, it was really hot on stage and there was no reverb on the pa for either vocals or guitar and it sounded so dry to me. I hate to make excuses (it is a “challenge” after all) but was a little out of my comfort zone until I picked up the Martin and finished my set with “Blues in the House”, “Slave to My Senses” and the Sam Cook tune. Crowd response was really good, especially after I did an extended jam at the end on the Sam Cook tune, I felt like I was at least in the running at that point.
What changed everything was when New Brunswick’s Mat Anderson took the stage. From the first note you knew this was going to be special. Vocally, his range, power, tone and dynamics were another level. He’s got quite a set of pipes and could work the mic from 4 feet away or bring it down to a whisper with a low baritone note right on top of it. He had a driving acoustic guitar technique (rock background?) with relentless bass lines and he’d solo on top, all with impeccable timing and technique. He played one slide tune that stood out and had so much variety song to song that it was constantly riveting to the listener. The pacing of his set was masterful, his 3rd tune was a gut wrenching soul ballad that vocally was untouchable all night and brought the house down. His sense of dynamics kept the tension and release building for the whole set and he ended with the most furious tune of the evening, practically shredding his strings in the process on a blues rock tune with a raveup ending, he really worked it. Add to that just the right amount of banter to make it personable. Everyone in the club knew he’d set a new bar. My only hope to compete at that point was that the judges would also recognize songwriting and crowd involvement, which I was told stood out in my set.
We made our way back to the hotel later and collapsed, it was a long day and to think of all the effort for 6 tunes…
The next morning “2 Belt” and Michelle drove me to a music store in Bartlett called Yarborough’s and I bought a used reverb pedal, I wanted every edge I could get and it sounded way better the next night. We had a nice breakfast at the hotel and took the old fashioned trolley outside our hotel to Beale St. and poked around and enjoyed all that Beale is famous for. We were in a historic area with a pretty park right outside our window and a short ride (or 15 minute walk) to the action.
Friday afternoon was a tour of the Gibson guitar factory, where they make the hollow body electrics, which was a trip for me as I play a Lucille. I was stunned at how much of the process is by hand (most of it) and could not believe what goes into making a guitar, it takes about 21 days to finish most models. The store was very cool as well, picked up some small items, t-shirts, etc.
I decided to start the next night with 2 acoustic guitar tunes, Blues in the House and “Slave to My Senses”, switch to dobro for 2, “Last Call & First Light” and “Friday Night Shoes” and then back to the Martin to rock the house with “I Need a Raise” which is more of a Bo Diddley feel and one I didn’t do the first night. I felt really good about the set and my friends called it “spot on”. I was more relaxed, had more fun and just let it flow. The only problem was that Mat Anderson really poured it on the second night and took it over the top and the crowd was really behind him. We found out he won our venue the next morning.
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After my show we all headed to BB Kings and caught some fine acts including NJ’s Matt O’Ree Band, who had the joint jumpin’! I thought they should have taken their night but it was not to be. I saw Christine Jackson with her band, I met her in ’07 and they sounded really good. We had a nice dinner and bar hopped a bit, caught Bob Margolin and Boston harmonica ace Rosie Rosenblatt at the Rum Boogie, the most crowded venue on the strip (and the smokiest, we have it so great in NE’s smoke free clubs). We were hoping to catch the Boston winners Mike Crandall band, who won the Boston band finals but the timing didn’t work out.
Beale St. was it’s usual gas and it was a mob scene most of the night. We hit the Pig, Tater Reds and a few other places and really enjoyed ourselves. It was a nice night weather wise as well and the sounds, sights and smells were awesome!
On Sat., four of us went to the Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Hotel, which is the site of Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination. This was one of the most moving experiences I’ve ever had and I recommend it to everyone. We did the self guided tour and stayed 51/2 hours and didn’t see everything. It covered the African American experience early in the Vietnam War and through the struggles down South including the bus boycotts and the sanitation strike in Memphis, which was why Martin was at the Lorraine when he died. His hotel room (306) was reconstructed exactly as it was in April of ’68 as was James Earl Ray’s boarding house room across the street. I can’t say enough of how this experience affected me and I’m so glad I went. We were pretty choked up when it was over.
We caught most of the band finals at the Orpheum on Sat. night and personally I didn’t think the level of quality was quite as high as 2007 but that’s just my opinion. The winning band had originals that were excellent and strayed a bit from pure blues and sported 2 smokin’ guitar players. Here’s who took the top spots in 2010:
The IBC honors the artists with awards in three demanding categories: band, solo/duo, and "Best Self-Produced CD." Matt Andersen, sponsored by Harvest Jazz and Blues from Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada, walked off with the award for "Best Solo/Duo Artist," with second place honors going to Alphonso Sanders and Bill "Howl-n-Madd" Perry, sponsored by Mississippi's Crossroads Blues Society. The "Best Band" award was given this year to Grady Champion, brought to the challenge by the Mississippi Delta Blues Society of Indianola. Second place in this category was earned by the Karen Lovely Band, Cascade Blues Association, and the third spot went to Cheryl Renee with Them Bones, sponsored by the Cincy Blues Society.
We got out of town just in time as we heard part of our entourage got delayed due to Tornado warnings…just found out Marty and Denise had to stay an extra day and got home Monday afternoon, glad they were ok.
My sincere thanks to all those that supported my efforts at the IBC this year and especially to Karen Nugent and the Boston Blues society who put their faith and trust in me to represent Boston. I’m humbled and most grateful for the chance you offered me and it was an experience I’ll treasure always.
Sincerely,
Bruce Marshall
Ps, no French Fries or Cole Slaw for at least a month!!
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Hi Folks,
We're just wrapping up an incredible weekend here in Memphis at the Blues Challenge. I didn't win but really enjoyed myself, made tons of new friends and fans and my entourage was just incredible. We went to the Civil Rights Musuem at the Lorraine Hotel and it was an experience I'll never forget.
There were 228 acts that competed and my night featured Matt Anderson who won the whole thing! We're off to our flight shortly and more on this later. Thanks to all that supported me. Bruce
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Hi Folks,
We are checked in Memphis and will be heading down to Beale St. for the first night of the International Blues Challenge! Bruce will be playing on the 3rd floor of Club 152 at 6:10 pm. Wish us luck! We will try to upload some video tonight after the show, stay tuned!!!
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Catching a cab with friends at 3:30 this morning so we can be "walkin' in Memphis, walkin' with my feet ten feet off of Beale"... Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all that donated for the trip, I'll do my best to make you all proud! Will send blogs from the road, best, Bruce
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Don't miss the Bruce Marshall Group at Dante's in Marlborough, MA. Sat. Jan. 16th. This is a fundraiser to help send Bruce to Memphis for the Int. Blues Challenge Memphis next week and it's also a CD release party. We'll do giveaway's and you can enjoy killer barbecue, dancing, great production. Join us! 9:30-12:30 Dante's
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Hi Folks,
I've been chosen by the Boston Blues Society to compete at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN., on Jan. 20-23, 2010 in the solo category. I will need to cover my own expenses on this trip so any amount you contribute, no matter how small is greatly appreciated.
Now in it’s 26th year, the challenge features blues musicians from around the world competing for cash, prizes, and industry recognition. This is my 2nd trip to the challenge, we competed in 2007 with the Bruce Marshall Group. The Mike Crandall band won the band regional challenge this year and will also be headed to Memphis. The world's largest gathering of Blues acts represents an international search by The Blues Foundation and its affiliated organizations for the blues band and solo/duo blues musicians ready to take their act to the international stage. There will be 100 bands and 60 solo/duo acts entered, filling the clubs up and down Beale Street with the semi-finals Jan. 21 and 22 at various venues and the finals at the Orpheum Theater on the 23rd. I will do 2 solo sets on acoustic and steel body dobro, performing all original tunes.
To defray the costs of the trip, a fundraiser will take place at Dante’s in Marlborough, MA., on Jan. 16, with music provided by the Bruce Marshall Group. The show runs from 9:30-12:30, tickets are $7. For more information log on to Dantes in Marlborough.
We’ve got quite a few fans flying down with us this year and hope to see as many of you as possible on Beale St. for more information log on to International Blues Challenge 2010.
Thanks for your support!
Bruce Marshall
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Hi Folks,
The finished CD is here! Thanks to all those who purchased the collectors edition we are sold out! For those that want the finished copy they are now available to ship or pick up at any of our shows. Make your plans and consider reserving a table ahead for our CD release party at Strange Brew on January 9th.
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It’s finally here, the new Bruce Marshall Group studio CD is now available for downloading and you can pre order a copy which we hope to have in hand by Dec. 18th. “Misspent Youth” contains 12 new Bruce Marshall original songs, including many fan favorites. There’s something here for everyone as the disc touches on shades of R & B, Blues, Rock and Soul, with stellar production throughout! The tunes are infectious, the performances are right on and the production of the disc is pristine. Dave Cournoyer played guitars, bass and notched a production credit on the disc and as to be expected his guitar work is mesmerizing throughout. Bruce sang lead vocals and played electric, acoustic and dobro guitars on his strongest collection of songs to date. Newest member Ed Grenga spiced up the sound on hammond organ and piano, John Donahoe adds fiddle and sax, Jeff Majeau and Neil Taylor played bass and Steve Wolpe and Pete Premo are on drums.
Our guests include vocalist Sally Marshall on “Slave to my Senses” and “Misspent Youth”, James Montgomery lays down a blistering harp solo on “3 Chords and the Truth”, and Britt Sawdon sings on “Procrastination”.
Thanks for stopping by and hope you like the new look to the site, we’ve got a new service and there’s a number of new features that should make it easier to navigate and offer more info on the group. Thanks to Michelle for all her hard work on the new site and the graphics on the new cd, which is a “digipack” design that uses less plastic. Let us know how you like the new CD and your suggestions are welcomed.
Our thanks go out to all those involved in the project and to our fans who have waited patiently for this release.
Our first official CD release party is at Strangebrew in Manchester, NH on Jan. 9th.
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I'll be doing a solo opener for Huey Lewis & The News at Hampton Casino Ballroom on Sunday, July 11. This one will be a first for me, these guys put on a first rate show, horns, the whole nine yards! It should sell out, 1100 tix already sold, still time to get great seats! 8:00 Tix are $40-$75.
169 Ocean ...Blvd, Hampton, NH. 603-929-4100 www.casinoballroom.com
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So the airing of last nights show was postponed due to a tornato warning broadcast but a video clip is onlie to see here: 207
I'll be featured today (July 21) on NBC's 207, a show on WCSH, Channel 6 out of Portland, ME. It will air live at 7:00PM for my Maine friends and will be on their website about an hour later, just go to www.wcsh6.com and click on 207 to view it. Thanks to Chris Bernazzani, Executive producer Becki Smith and the rest of the team. They taped a segment in studio with me last month and I performed "There Go I" and "3 Chords & the Truth" and they chatted with me for a couple minutes afterwards. Have not seen it yet...
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Hi Folks,
My incredible 2010 summer run at Hampton Casino Ballroom continues this Thursday, July 29 with another solo opener, this time for the legendary Tower of Power! Known as a “musicians band”, the Casino decided to book them on a Thursday so more musicians could attend. Together for 42 years, their 10 piece lineup still has 5 original members including founders Emilio Castillo and Doc Kupka, Mic Gillete and of course the killer rhythm section of David Garibaldi and Francis Rocco Prestia. Their infectious “Urban Soul” will surely raise the rafters at the Ballroom and is a show you don’t want to miss.
I’ll be covering tunes from my 6 releases on acoustic and dobro and really looking forward to this one. Doors are at 6, I play from 8-8:30 and Tower should be on around 9. Tickets are 20.50 for GA, 24.50 Reserved and 30.50 for Gold seats. 169 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH. 03842. 603-929-4100. Buy tickets online at: Casino Ballroom. Thanks to Live Nation for putting me on this bill in addition to Huey Lewis and Dennis DeYoung; The Music of Styx shows earlier this summer. Also, thanks to Michelle for creating a fabulous website for me, the headliners log on to check me out and it appears they’re impressed! Hope to see you there!
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The Bruce Marshall Group plays the Blues Barge at the Boston Harbor Hotel tonight, Thursday Aug. 12 from 6-10 PM. Last chance to enjoy the group at one of the most beautiful venues out there, our second and last show here this summer. We'll have the 5 piece lineup and it promises to be a special night! No cover, parking in the BHH garage, grab a bite and enjoy the show. 70 Rowes Wharf, 02110. 617-439-7000.
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BRUCE MARSHALL GROUP
By Nate Dow
Friday, June 11, 2010
“Misspent Youth” (ATM): B+
Since disbanding his Boston-based band, Bruce Marshall and the Clue, in the late ’80s to form this group, it has been a long ride for the Concord singer/songwriter. Thankfully much of it is captured here in the group’s fifth recording. Marshall says the autobiographical core of the album is slightly embellished in its oft-visited themes of addiction, youthful ignorance, lost love and personal remorse, but his songs are so well-crafted that it all rings anew. With a Jesse Winchester-like skill for blending blues, country and jazz and a monster ear for a hook, Marshall’s tunes have a way of taking hold and resonating long after they end. Download: “3 Chords and the Truth.”
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Getting cabin fever? Now that winter has set in and the rush of the holiday season is behind us it's time to shake off those shut in blues and check out a show! Go to our shows page here and see the full list of gigs!
Are you a musician looking for spot to try out your new material? Check out our new open mic page and come out for a night of great local music. These are great opportunities to network with other musicians and just have fun!
Thank you readers & fans!
I recently found out I won Outstanding Acoustic Musician in the 2011 Blues Audience Readers Poll. They listed all the winners on the magazine cover w/ photos and include Dave Maxwell, Sugar Ray, Toni Lynn Washington, Marty Richards and others. I'm honored to be in such company, thank you for voting for me this year and in 2006! The Blues Audience is the only independent blues magazine in NE and supports musicians in a myriad of ways.
You may notice some changes to the format in our attempts at making the site more useful. This opening page will have a “Spotlight” emphasis on it and will include any special upcoming shows we want to highlight, band news, reviews and any other pertinent information that could be of interest at first glance. Thanks for your suggestions as we tweak the site and a special
thanks for supporting Bruce Marshall, The Bruce Marshall Group and Montgomery & Marshall. We encourage you to send reviews of our live act and recordings and can do that by clicking the Reviews tab. A complete list of shows through the end of the year is on the Shows page. Be sure to click on “See all shows” at the top.
On the live front, 2010 has been quite a summer for Bruce, with 29 gigs logged in June, 24 in July and 27 in August. Solo highlights include a record breaking 3 shows at the Casino Ballroom in Hampton in May and July with Dennis DeYoung (music of Styx), Huey Lewis & The News, and Tower of Power. Bruce also shared the stage with the Subdudes in Maine and was
featured on NBC’s “207” show on WCSH Portland, ME and, C-C TV, Concord, MA. Bruce has gotten quite a bit of press of late with the new CD just out including The Boston Herald, Metronome and Boston Blues Society. They’re on the Reviews page.
The Bruce Marshall Group kicked off the concert season performing at the WZLX Finish Line Party for the Boston Marathon. Carter Alan put the band live on the air and is pushing the BMG tune “Three Chords & the Truth” on his Sunday show. You can request the tune here.
Bruce’s open mic’s continue to flourish, with Tues’ Main St’s Market in Concord still red hot and Smoken Joes on Mondays and Firefly’s on Weds doing great.
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Don’t miss this special night of music with Montgomery and Marshall and Jon Pousette-Dart at the
Shalin Liu Theater in Rockport, MA. on April 1. James and Bruce play a duo set to open, Jon will do his show then
M & M will join Jon on 4 of his tunes. Bruce is a big Pousette-Dart fan and really looking forward to this collaboration.
The Pousette-Dart Band were signed to Capitol Records in the 70’s and had a string of hits including “County Line”, “Amnesia” and “Fall on Me”. Led by singer-songwriter and guitarist Jon Pousette-Dart, the group built a reputation as a strong live act as well as putting out quality recordings. They continue to perform nationally and Jon is also known for his solo work.
The 330 seat theater Shalin Liu is an extraordinary music hall w/ superb acoustics and spectacular views of the ocean and has become an important cultural resource for the greater Boston community, attracting well-known performers, audiences, and visitors to Cape Ann. Imagine listening to world-renowned artists performing in an intimate concert hall overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The beauty of the setting, the rich and lively sound of the hall, and the close relationship between audience and performers become an essential part of the concert experience here at the Shalin Liu Theater. Tickets are $39 and $49, get them early for this event!
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Saturday, April 9 9:00 pm
Absolutely Fabulous
454 Main Street, Melrose, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
This is the first time for the band in this room and we would love your support. This is a fun and cozy venue with absolutely fabulous food!
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Folks, I’ve been nominated for a Worcester Music Award and I would very much appreciate your vote. I’ve been nominated in the “Legends” category, an Award for the band/performer that is still going strong and is an important part of local music history. The awards are sponsored by Pulse magazine and I was very touched I was considered for this. Thank you for all your support. If you click on the link below all you have to do is add your e-mail address and scroll down to #26 to vote for me. Wish me luck!

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Hi folks,
I’m hosting a new open mic the 4th Thursday of each month, here are the details:
Thursday, April 28 7:00 pm
Great Brook Farm
356 Main Street, Bolton, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Hosts Open Mic
Website
978-779-6680
Sign up in person after 6:15. 2 Songs per player, no full drum kits.
Bass player bring small amp, no house keyboard, no cover charge.
I’m very excited to be hosting a new open mic at Great Brook Farms in Bolton. It will be the 4th Thursday of every month and run from 7-10 PM. We invite all musicians to support this new series in the lovely confines of GBF. Enjoy great acoustics, the areas best barbecue and sandwiches and the opportunity to play in front of an appreciative audience. This is a great way to network with other artists and explore different musical collaborations with attendees.
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Thursday, May 26 7:00 pm
Great Brook Farm
356 Main Street, Bolton, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Hosts Open Mic
Website
I’m very excited to be hosting a new open mic at Great Brook Farms in Bolton. We had a great time last month and are confident this will grow into a music destination. We invite all musicians to support this new series in the lovely confines of GBF. Enjoy great acoustics, the areas best barbecue and sandwiches and the opportunity to play in front of an appreciative audience. This is a great way to network with other artists and explore different musical collaborations with attendees. Sign up in person after 6:15. 2 Songs per player, no full drum kits. Bass player bring small amp, no house keyboard.
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Friday, June 3 8:00 pm
Opening for James Montgomery Band
Biddeford City Theater
205 Main Street, Biddeford, ME (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Solo Opener for The James Montgomery Band
Website
$25.00-$35.00-$55.00 (Buy tickets)
Bruce is looking forward to his return to the City Theater in Biddeford, Maine on Friday, June 3rd and you can expect a healthy dose of songs from his latest CD “Misspent Youth” on acoustic guitar and dobro. His previous appearance here 4 years ago was considered by many of his fans to be his finest solo show ever. The James Montgomery Band will headline the show and they’ve never sounded better, coming off the recent Legends tour with some of the biggest names in the business.
The theme of the evening is “The Best of Maine” and features Pete Kilpatrick, the singer songwriter and band leader who’s won best male vocalist in Maine in a readers poll four years in a row. Mark Miller was awarded Maine’s best guitarist in Music Database in 2010, Marie Moreshead was voted top female vocalist in the 2010 Portland Phoenix and David Hull is fresh off tours with Aerosmith and The Joe Perry Project and enjoying the fruits of his new band CD.
The Theater was built in 1896 and has been restored to it’s original splendor with modern conveniences and comfort. The acoustics are superb with updated sound and lighting and a new air conditioning system. You can expect some jams at this one, especially with James and Bruce already in a duo together, David Hull who goes back 15 years with JMB and our history with the other artist’s. Tickets are $25, $35 and $55, online or by phone (and at the door): 207-282-0849
205 Main St., Biddeford, Maine. 04005. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a great night of music in a magical setting.
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Thursday, June 16 8:00 pm
Opening for The Tedeschi Trucks Band!
Casino Ballroom: 169 Hampton Blvd, Hampton, NH (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Solo Opener for The Tedeschi Trucks Band
Website
$36.00-$56.00-$70.00 (Buy tickets)
I'm excited to announce I'm opening solo for the Derek Trucks, Susan Tedeschi Band at Hampton Casino Ballroom in Hampton, NH on June 16, 8-8:30. This is my biggest show so far in 2011 and I hope you’ll join me for what will be a fabulous night of music. I’ll be featuring songs from my latest CD on guitar and Dobro and some brand new material as well. This is my 15 summer playing Hampton and it’s always a highlight for me.
As husband-wife couples go in the world of music, it is a challenge to find a duo as well-fitted and naturally prolific as that of singer/guitarist Susan Tedeschi and guitarist Derek Trucks. They are both heavily steeped in the blues tradition, yet open to far-ranging influences including rock, gospel, jazz and World music. Each has produced recordings that share a sensibility best described as a swampy mix of rootsy, rockin’ American music. The two have played on each other’s albums, toured together intermittently, and last year they each received individual Grammy nominations in the category of “Best Contemporary Blues Album” for their 2009 albums, Tedeschi for Back To The River and Trucks for Already Free (which he won). As well, they often perform together with the Allman Brothers Band—with whom Trucks continues to play as co-lead guitarist. Susan is one of the most powerful and emotional singers in the blues world and Derek has taken slide guitar to new heights, after hearing records by Duane Allman as a young boy. His uncle is Butch Trucks, drummer for the Allman Brothers and he introduced a young Derek to Southern Rock early on and put him on stage with the Allmans at the tender age of 13!
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Friday, June 24 8:00 pm
Chan's Jazz & Blues Club
267 Main Street, Woonsocket, RI (MAP)
401-765-1900
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
(Buy Tickets)
Hi Folks,
On Friday, June 24, The Bruce Marshall Group makes it’s long awaited debut to Chans, in Woonsocket, RI. Considered one of the finest concert clubs on the East coast, the list of internationally renowned acts that make a stop here is a who’s who of jazz, blues and R & B greats. The intimate, 150 seat Four Seasons Jazz and Blues Club is the perfect venue for BMG and we hope you’ll support us on what promises to be a fabulous evening. The group has added multi-talented John Donahoe on Fiddle and Sax and he’s has played with BMG since 2000. Experience the 5 piece lineup in one of the premiere concert clubs in the Northeast. We’ll be debuting new songs, look for some acoustic offerings and other surprises. Chan’s is also a Chinese Restaurant offering 4 different cuisines, so bring your appetite. Tickets are only $10 and the show starts at 8pm, with the possibility of a later show at 10pm if we sell out the 8pm. Call the club for more info or click on the Buy Tickets link above.
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RAINED OUT!
Saturday, June 25 6:00 pm
Nashua Folk Festival
Historic Holman Stadium: 100 Concord St, Nashua, NH (MAP)
Rare chance to see this all star line up!
* Tom Rush
* Jonathon Edwards
* Jon Pousette-Dart
* Kate Taylor
* Terri Lee
James Montgomery and Bruce Marshall will be opening the show for this all star lineup!
Website
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Sunday, June 26 4:00 pm
BMG & The Peacheaters!
Great Brook Farm: 356 Main Street, Bolton, MA (MAP)
The Bruce Marshall Group and the Peacheaters will bring this red hot double bill back on Sunday, June 26th. Bruce Marshall Group and Peacheaters from 4:00 - 10:00pm
Website
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Saturday, July 9 7:00 pm
Cornish Inn
2 High Rd, Cornish, ME (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Solo
Website
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Friday, July 8 9:00 pm
Strange Brew Tavern
88 Market St, Manchester, NH (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Friday, July 22 8:00 pm
Opening for Johnny A
Blue Ocean Music Hall
4 Oceanfront North, Salisbury, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Duo
Website
$25.00 (Buy tickets)
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Saturday, July 23 8:30 pm
Billiards Cafe
39 Main Street, Ayer, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Thursday, July 28 7:00 pm
Slater's
356 Main Street, Bolton, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Hosts Open Mic
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Saturday, July 30 9:00 pm
Rick's Cafe
Route 302 On the Causeway, Naples, ME (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Thursday, August 11 6:00 pm
Boston Harbor Hotel Blues Barge
Boston Harbor Hotel: 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Saturday, August 13 5:00 pm
Hudson Balloon Festival
Hudson Elks Lodge: 99 Park Street, Hudson, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Saturday, August 20 7:00 pm
Center Theatre
20 East Main Street, Dover-Foxcroft, ME (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
We hope to see all our north country friends when The Bruce Marshall Group returns to The Center Theatre, thanks to local sponsor, Mayo Regional Hospital.
In a recent interview with the venue Bruce states “The music will be of special interest to people who appreciate the Dobro resonator guitar and the unique uses of the "tin can with strings" when he slaps a pickup on his model D60 and amplifies it. The traditional unadorned, yet brilliant, dobro sound becomes transformed”.
"I just started using it in my solo act many, many years ago and people wouldn't let me put it down, I originally got it just to use on five or six songs to break up the set a little bit and people would be just yelling, 'More steel! More steel! So it just kind of clicked and I've kind of become a bit known for it."
The first of two 50-minute sets might open with a slower song like "Blues in the House" from Misspent Youth and then consciously build excitement. "There will be these really strong peaks then we'll bring it way down and cut loose with a ballad," explains Marshall. The band does a lot of dynamic layering within songs as well.
The band's latest CD, Misspent Youth (2010), will have special keepsake value to local fans because the cover bears the image of the Center Theatre façade with the band's name on the marquee. They performed here in 2008 to a near-capacity crowd. Tickets for Aug. 20 show featuring two 50-minute sets are $12 in advance or $15 at the door and may be purchased at Mr. Paperback, Fox Brook Variety, Forget Me Not Flowers, the Piscataquis Chamber of Commerce office or Center Theatre in person or online at centertheatre.org or by calling (207) 564-8943.
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Friday, August 26 10:00 pm
The Village Smokehouse
98 Middle Street, Lowell, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
Come out and support the band for our debut at The Village Smokehouse in Lowell! Great location and food, this should be a rock'n night. Band starts at 10pm doors at 9pm word on the street is that street parking can be tough so leave extra time or choose the Leo Roy Parking Facility on 100 Market Street. (MAP)
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Wednesday, August 31 7:30 pm
Opening for Creedence Clearwater Revisited
North Shore Music Theatre
62 Dunham Road, Beverly, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Solo
Website
(Buy tickets)
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Canceled
I'm sorry to announce that the Montgomery and Marshall 2 night appearance at the Guthrie Center in Great Barrington, MA. on Sept. 2 & 3 is canceled. The venue has flooded out due to Irene and the electrical system has been compromised. I expect a reschedule for this show and my apologies to our fans that were looking forward to this, thank you for your understanding. We wish the Guthrie Center the best of luck in getting it up and running soon.
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Sunday, September 11 8:00 pm
“With A Little Help From My Friends”
Scullers Jazz Club
400 Soldiers Field Road, Boston, MA (MAP)
I'll be at Scullers, September 11th with James Montgomery & Friends for a special concert for project hope on the 10th anniversary of Sept. 11th. “With A Little Help From My Friends” is a tribute to Paige Farley Hackel and all those lost 10 years ago. With surprise guests from the Boston music scene!
Tickets $35 general ad, $100 VIP w/ meet and greet.
Doors at 7:00, show time 8:00.
GA $35.00 VIP $100.00 (Buy tickets)
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Thursday, September 22 7:00 pm
Slater's
356 Main Street, Bolton, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Hosts Open Mic
Website
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Friday, September 23 8:00 pm
Nourish
1727 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Solo
Website
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Saturday, September 24 9:00 pm
Inn On The Blues
7 Ocean Avenue, York Beach, ME (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Friday, September 30 9:00 pm
Dante's
350 East Main Street, Marlborough, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Thursday, October 13 7:00 pm
Slater's
356 Main Street, Bolton, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Hosts Open Mic
Website
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Saturday, October 22 9:30 pm
The Dubliner
197 Market Street, Lowell, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Friday, October 28 9:00 pm
Smoken’ Joe’s Barbeque & Blues
351 Washington Street, Brighton, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Thursday, November 3 9:00 pm
The Dubliner
197 Market Street, Lowell, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Solo
Website
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Saturday, November 5 9:00 pm
Strange Brew Tavern
88 Market St, Manchester, NH (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Thursday, November 10 7:00 pm
Slater's
356 Main Street, Bolton, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Hosts Open Mic
Website
On Nov. 10th, Bruce will be joined by James Montgomery, his duo partner since ‘94 as a special feature during his Thursday open mic. The duo has shared the stage with BB King, John Hiatt, Edgar Winter, Steven Tyler and Brad Whitford and Peter Frampton, among others. They have 2 CD’s to their credit and have earned a reputation as one of the most exciting blues duos on the circuit today. Look for a mix of originals, chestnuts and pre war blues. Their chemistry and musicianship must be experienced live, don’t miss this rare event! Bruce will start solo at 7:00, bring up a couple players and then look for M & M to take the stage around 7:45 for a 60 min. feature. James will sit in with attendees later in the evening and we’ll go to around 10:30.
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Saturday, November 12, 7:30 pm
BMG opens for Roomful of Blues!
Show Case Live
23 Patriot Place, Foxborough, MA (MAP)
(Buy tickets)
Website
The 4 piece Bruce Marshall Group will be ripping through cuts from their latest CD, “Misspent Youth” and is looking forward to their debut at this incredible venue. Even though Roomful of Blues’ lineup has changed over the years, the band has always been one of the tightest, most joyful blues ensembles in the world. Currently an eight-piece unit led by guitarist Chris Vachon, the band has never sounded fresher or stronger. In 2010, singer Phil Pemberton took over the vocal duties, bringing his sweet and soulful vocals and adding another bright new dimension to the jazzy, jump-blues musical roots. Their winning combination of jump, swing, blues, R&B and soul remains their calling card, as does their ability to fill the dance floor.
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Saturday, December 3 7:30 pm
Slater's Holiday Party!
356 Main Street, Bolton, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall & James Montgomery
Website
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Friday, December 9 7:30 pm
Bristol Commons Restaurant
553 Kelley Boulevard, North Attleboro, MA (MAP)
Montgomery & Marshall Duo
Website
Phone: 508-699-2446
Only $5 cover!
James Montgomery & Bruce Marshall acoustic duo will appear at Bristol Commons Restaurant in N. Attleboro, MA. this Friday, Dec. 9. Another rare weekend night to enjoy one of the best blues duos in the biz in a beautiful new restaurant & function room that holds 250. Bristol Commons won a gold plate award from TV Diner and they'll be a light food menu. Doors are at 7:30, showtime 8-10:30 Call ahead for reservations!
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Friday, December 16 9:00 pm
Montgomery & Marshall Duo!
Firefly's
235 Old Ct Path, Framingham, MA (MAP)
Ok it's official my solo gig for this Friday, Dec. 16 at Firefly's in Framingham, MA is now a James Montgomery and Bruce Marshall duo gig. This marks the 3rd weekend night the duo has appeared in Dec, please join us for some holiday merriment from 9-11. There's no cover, award winning barbecue, tons of free parking and great staff. You never know who might sit in!
Website
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Thursday, December 22 7:00 pm
Slater's
356 Main Street, Bolton, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Hosts Open Mic
Website
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Thursday, December 29 8:00 pm
Montgomery Marshall Duo is Back!!!
Bristol Commons Restaurant:
553 Kelley Boulevard,
North Attleboro, MA (MAP)
Website
Phone: 508-699-2446
Only $10 cover!
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Friday, December 30 8:00 pm
Nourish
1727 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Solo
Website
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Saturday, January 7 9:30 pm
Dante's
350 East Main Street, Marlborough, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Friday, January 13 9:30 pm
Montgomery & Marshall Duo!
Louis
1269 Sea Street, Quincy, MA (MAP)
Website
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Saturday, January 14 9:00 pm
The Press Room
77 Daniel Street, Portsmouth, NH (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Group
Website
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Friday, February 3 9:30 pm
Montgomery & Marshall Duo!
Louis
1269 Sea Street, Quincy, MA (MAP)
Website
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Thursday, February 9, 7:00 pm
Montgomery & Marshall Duo!
Slater's
356 Main Street, Bolton, MA (MAP)
Website
Ok it's official my open mic for this Thursday, February 9th at Slater's in Bolton, MA will feature the James Montgomery and Bruce Marshall duo. You never know who might sit in!
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Saturday, February 11 8:00 pm
Columbia Tavern
11 Merriam Avenue, Leominster, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall Solo
website
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Saturday, February 18 7:30 pm
Opening For Johnny Lang at
Show Case Live
23 Patriot Place, Foxborough, MA (MAP)
Bruce Marshall & Dave Cournoyer Duo
Website
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